A Victoria Cross awarded to a Scots captain in the Royal Navy for his remarkable bravery during the First World War has fetched £240,000 at auction in London.

Captain Henry Peel Ritchie from Edinburgh earned the V.C. or his “gallant command” of the battleship HMS Goliath’s steam pinnace after it was attacked at Dar-es-Salaam in East Africa on 28 November 1914.

Ritchie, 38, was wounded eight times in 20 minutes as the vessel came under a “storm” of shells and bullets in the city’s harbour. He maintained command until he fell unconscious due to loss of blood.  

The first naval V.C. awarded in the Great War, the medal was presented to Ritchie by King George V at Buckingham Palace the following year.

It went under the hammer alongside Ritchie’s five other medals at Noonans of Mayfair, where it was bought by a private bidder after a battle with a rival collector.

Ritchie was born at Melville Gardens, Edinburgh, on 29 January 1876, and attended George Watson’s College before joining the Navy as cadet in 1890 aged just 14.

Rising through the ranks, he won the Army and Navy lightweight boxing championship in 1900, and was also commended by Their Lordships of the Admiralty for attempting to save the life of a rating from drowning at Chatham in 1903.

After the outbreak of war in 1914, he was ordered to East Africa to help locate and destroy the German commerce raider Königsberg.

As second-in-command of the battleship HMS Goliath, Ritchie went to Dar-es-Salaam, where a number of German ships had been supplying Königsberg after the raider became trapped.

Ritchie took command of Goliath’s steam pinnace to enter the harbour, where the vessel came under heavy German fire from huts by the water’s edge, from houses, wooded groves and hills above, and even from a cemetery.

Ritchie was hit on the forehead, in the left hand, twice in the left arm, in his right arm and hip; and finally, two bullets through his right leg, before he fainted.

But his efforts helped bring the pinnace back alongside Goliath, which opened fire with its main 12-inch guns.

Ritchie received his V.C. on 24 April 1915 and, the following month, returned to light duties with an appointment at the Haslar Gunboat Yards in Hampshire.

His citation, in the London Gazette of 10 April 1915, read: “For most conspicuous bravery on the 28th November 1914 when in command of the searching and demolition operations at Dar-es-Salaam, East Africa.

“Though severely wounded several times, his fortitude and resolution enabled him to continue to do his duty, inspiring all by his example, until, at his eighth wound, he became unconscious.

“The interval between his first and last severe wound was between twenty and twenty-five minutes.”

Ritchie was later appointed to the command of the armed boarding steamer Suva, employed in the Red Sea, supporting military operations including those by Lawrence of Arabia.

Ritchie, who was promoted Captain on the Retired List in January 1924, lived at Craigroyston House in Edinburgh, where he died on 9 December 1958, aged 83.

The V.C., which remained in “extremely fine” condition, was sold alongside Ritchie’s 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory Medals, Coronation 1937 medal and Coronation 1953 medal.

Christopher Mellor-Hill, Head of Client Liaison at Noonans, said after the sale: “The price achieved reflects the bravery and gallantry of Ritchie and the importance of the Victoria Cross.

“It was also the first Naval VC of WW1 when the Navy was very busy blockading German East Africa and hunting the German battleship SS Konigsberg.

“After competition between a bidder on the phone and a commission bidder, the medal was purchased by a private collector.”

Capt. Ritchie’s V.C was among the highlights of a “phenomenal collection” of naval medals put together by the late Jason Pilalas.

Pilalas, of Connecticut, USA, served as an officer in the US Navy, with whom he completed three tours of Vietnam, and later went in “relentless pursuit of knowledge of all things relating to the Royal Navy”.

Hibs youngster Josh O’Connor has joined Dundalk on loan.

The 20-year-old’s loan spell will last until the end of the League of Ireland Premier Division season, seeing him return to Hibs on 1 January, 2025.

This is the youngster’s second move away from the Club having spent last season on loan with Airdrieonians. He went on to make 33 appearances for them in all competitions.

He will now join up with Jon Daly’s Railwaymen for the remainder of the League of Ireland campaign.

Dundalk currently sit ninth in the Irish top-flight with 22 points from 24 games.

Hibs Sporting Director Malky Mackay commented: “This is another opportunity for Josh to gain regular experience of playing men’s football.

“Playing in a different league and country will be a new experience for him, and one I’m sure he will relish. We wish him all the best for the next six months.”

Stewart Dickson has urged his Berwick Jewson Bandits riders to raise their game for this weekend’s basement derbies with Stellar Omada Monarchs.

The opening clash is at Armadale on Friday (tapes-up 7.30pm) and the return is at Shielfield Park on Saturday (tapes-up 7pm) and the clubs currently sit in the bottom two places in the Cab Direct Championship.

They are separated only by points’ difference and both have five meetings left to race.

A maximum haul from those remaining fixtures could see either team sneak the final play-off place but, in reality, the clubs are in a three-way fight with Plymouth Gladiators to avoid the wooden spoon.

Edinburgh have a BSN Series semi-final to look forward to and they lost once in the BSN, by four points at Berwick, but Monarchs have beaten play-off contenders Scunthorpe Scorpions and Oxford Cheethas in the Championship at Armadale and Poole Pirates in the home leg of the Knockout Cup.

They also disposed of a below-strength Workington Comets side at Armadale last week but home losses to Redcar Bears and Plymouth plus a blank on the road see them in the bottom part of the table.

Ben Barker and Joe Thompson guest for the Bandits in both matches in place of Berwick’s duo of injured former Monarchs star Rory Schlein and Bastian Borke.

Edinburgh are minus Justin Sedgmen who suffered concussion in a first-bend pile-up against Workington. Edinburgh have opted for rider-replacement.

Berwick went into April’s BSN Series meeting at Armadale full of hope after winning both of their home meetings only to lose Jye Etheridge and Drew Kemp after their machines locked together on the back straight and hurled them into the third bend fence.

Two shed chains at the starting line for Danyon Hume, who won two of his other three races, effectively ended their challenge and Lewi Kerr, a consistent high scorer at Armadale, was also missing through injury that night.

Monarchs can give extra rides to Kye Thomson, who has a particularly good record against the Bandits on home shale. while captain Paco Castagna is also in fine form.

Dickson said: “No question, we need to raise our game from Wednesday night at Oxford.” Bandits lost 53-37.

The team manager (pictured) added: “Having Joe Thompson with us this week is a great bit by business the club and gives us a solid reserve while Ben Barker will bring his swashbuckling approach to the weekend. It’s a big ask to cover for Rory, especially at Armadale, but we have riders who go well there.

“They just have to produce it on the night. At Oxford we gated well but then found ourselves riding the wrong lines allowing the Cheetahs through. Five points are up for grabs. We have to prove that we want it more.”

Edinburgh: Josh Pickering, Kye Thomson, Lasse Fredriksen, Paco Castagna, rider replacement for Justin Sedgmen (Saturday Leon Flint), Max James, Connor Coles

Bandits: Lewi Kerr, Danyon Hume, Jye Etheridge, Drew Kemp, Ben Barker, Freddy Hodder, Joe Thompson

Paintings donated by leading Scottish artists including Jack Vettriano, Alison Watt and John Lowrie Morrison are to be sold at an auction hosted by broadcaster Glenn Campbell to raise money for a new Scottish Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence.

Glenn, 48, was sadly diagnosed with an oligodendroglioma – a type of brain tumour, in summer 2023 during a hospital stay after falling off his bike in East Lothian.

The BBC Scotland journalist and broadcaster underwent surgery at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

The online auction, Brain Power; Art Sale in Support of Brain Tumour Research, will take place at Bonhams, Melville Crescent from 2-12 August.

All proceeds will go to the charity Brain Tumour Research, which is working to raise the funds needed to establish the Centre of Excellence at laboratories at the University of Edinburgh and the University of Glasgow.

Leading the 40 lots will be Vettriano’s Portrait of the Artist , which is expected to fetch £5,000 – £7,000.

A landscape titled Wee Peat Stacks, South Uist, by John Lowrie Morrison, (who is commonly known as Jolomo), is valued at £2,000 – £3,000, while a still life, Vintage Coffee Pot and Sunflowers, by Glenn Scouller could fetch £1,500 – £2,500.

Work by other leading Scottish artists including Victoria Crowe, Alison Watt, Frances Walker, Barbara Rae, CBE, RA, FRSE and Adrian Wiszniewski will also feature .

The works will be on display at Bonhams’ showrooms for the duration of the sale.

Glenn said: “It was a big shock to be told I had a life-limiting condition. When I was told that brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40, I knew I wanted to help change these grim statistics.

“That’s why I created the fundraising community, Brain Power, to raise money to research this devastating disease.

“It seems to me, the more scientific brain power we can train on this problem, the more likely the experts are to make breakthroughs in treatment and their search for a cure.

“I liked the idea of having an art sale because there can be few better illustrations of the power and creativity of the human brain than the visual arts.”

More than 1,000 people in Scotland are diagnosed with a brain tumour every year. Of those, 433 people are diagnosed with a high-grade brain tumour.

The Scottish Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence will see world-leading brain cancer experts work to find a cure for glioblastoma (GBM), a highly aggressive brain tumour with a devastatingly short average survival time of 12-18 months.

May Matthews, Managing Director of Bonhams Scotland, said: “We are thrilled to be supporting Brain Tumour Research. As the only national charity in the UK focused on finding a cure for all types of brain tumours, its work is critical to funding medical research and raising awareness.

“The sale includes some remarkable works donated by many prestigious and award-winning Scottish artists from Jack Vettriano and Victoria Crowe to Alison Watt and John Lowrie Morrison. This is a wonderful opportunity to buy some outstanding paintings for a very good cause.”

Ashley McWilliams, community development manager for Brain Tumour Research, said: “We are delighted Bonhams is joining forces with Glenn to support us in our drive to find a cure for brain tumours.

“With one in three people knowing someone affected by a brain tumour, Glenn’s story is, sadly, not unique.

“Brain tumours kill more men under 70 than prostate cancer. We’re determined to change that, but we can’t do it alone. Together we will find a cure.”

Brain tumours are indiscriminate and can affect anyone at any age.

According to Brain Tumour Research, only 12% of those diagnosed with a brain tumour survive beyond five years, compared with an average of 54% across all cancers.

The charity funds sustainable research at dedicated centres in the UK. It also campaigns for the Government and larger cancer charities to invest more in research into brain tumours in order to speed up new treatments for patients and, ultimately, find a cure.

The charity is the driving force behind the call for a national annual spend of £35 million in order to improve survival rates and patient outcomes in line with other cancers such as breast cancer and leukaemia.

Click here to donate to Glenn Campbell’s Brain Power page for Brain Tumour Research

East of Scotland tennis women today went into the fourth match of their Summer County Cup campaign within touching distance of an immediate return to Group Four.

The women were due to face bottom side South Wales after posting a third straight win, by 6-3 against Suffolk.

Meanwhile the men’s side are in action against Hertfordshire in Group One at Eastbourne fresh from claiming bragging rights in an 8-1 victory over North of Scotland.

That was the East men’s second win from three starts.

Meanwhile, rising Edinburgh star Jacob Fearnley faces a big test this evening as he continues to further his career on the US Challenger circuit.

Having come through qualifying and successfully negotiated a first round tie Jacob, 23, faces French left hander Terence Atmane, in Chicago.

Tournament top seed Atmane is  currently on a career high ranking of 118- considerably higher than Jacob who is, however, also on an upward trajectory at world No 225. That rating is expected to come down to around – at least – 216 next week.

Jacob is also due in doubles action today partnering Charles Broom in a quarter final tie.

While it may not be compulsory to dress up for the latest musical built around the songs of country icon Dolly Parton, those that did certainly added a bit of ‘yee-haw’ to proceedings for the press night of Here You Come Again, at Edinburgh Playhouse.

Continue reading here…

The Church of Scotland is selling the official Edinburgh residence used by the Moderator of the General Assembly during their year in office, with offers invited over £890,000.

The elegant two-storey conversion at 2 Rothesay Terrace is part of an historic townhouse in the capital’s West End.

It has been put up for sale as the cash-strapped Kirk continues to cull churches, halls and former manses in a bid to become “lean and fit for the 21st century”.

The Church of Scotland purchased the “truly exquisite” property for use as the official residence for the Moderator in 1998.

The sale of one of the most notable residential properties in the Kirk’s portfolio could now potentially raise around £1 million.

A spokesperson said the sale had sparked considerable interest with several viewings having taken place and more scheduled, adding: “We have had a lot of interest in the exquisite Rothesay Terrace property and viewings are still ongoing. No date has been fixed for a closing date as yet.”

The property is one of 106 addresses currently being offered for sale around Scotland, ranging from tiny village kirks to grand cathedral-style churches and a variety of residential properties.

The sales are part of a major restructuring exercise that has already seen some of Scotland’s best-loved churches disposed of to release equity tied up in a portfolio that at one time numbered more than 5,000 properties.

Number 2 Rothesay Terrace is described in the sale brochure as a “truly exquisite ground and first floor conversion providing an excellent home in… one of the most desirable residential addresses in the capital.”

Once owned by 19th century philanthropist and newspaper owner John Ritchie Findlay, in recent years the property has been the official and primary residence of the Moderator.

Located within walking distance of the Church of Scotland’s HQ in George Street, it has also been used to host events and receptions with invited guests and dignitaries ranging from presidents to missionaries from around the world.

The three bedroom property with access to private gardens offers “stunning” views over Dean Village and the Firth of Forth, while also boasting proximity to the city centre’s shops, theatres, and restaurants and a number of  leading schools.

The most recent resident was the 2023-24 Moderator, the Very Rev Sally Foster-Fulton. Her successor, the current Moderator, Rev Dr Shaw J Paterson, now resides in a more modest Church of Scotland flat in the city.

It is unknown whether there will be an “official residence” in the future. However, it is understood the Church, which is trying to reduce the number of properties in its portfolio, will not seek to buy a replacement. A neighbouring property sold for £925,000 in March.

Soaring costs, falling congregations and dwindling ministers forced the Church of Scotland to set in motion a range of reforms in 2019 in order to recalibrate its dire financial position and stimulate the rebirth of community worship.

The spokesperson said: “Reducing the number of buildings we own has been one part of a raft of radical reforms being undertaken by the Church in recent years aimed at ensuring we are lean and fit for mission in the 21st century and have well equipped spaces in the right places.

“In the majority of cases, the money that is received from the sale of Church buildings is returned to local congregations or held centrally for their benefit and therefore does not reduce the national Church’s budget deficit.”

They added: “The Moderator’s role lasts for one year, during which they would have normally stayed in the official residence full time, and received guests and visitors there.

“The property is now being marketed for sale. We are reviewing plans as to where the Moderator might reside during their term in office in the future.”

The biggest prize in comedy is back for another year at the Fringe.

Live Comedy is now a large part of the Fringe programme in Edinburgh and the “Oscars of Comedy” will spotlight the next big thing on the comedy scene.

Nica Burns, CBE, is Director of the Edinburgh Comedy Awards and Donald Taffner Jr of DLT Entertainment is returning this year in the role of sponsor along with The Victoria Wood Foundation. Their support ensures that these prizes can continue, as the scheme was under threat last year due to lack of financial backing.

One prize is the DLT Entertainment Best Newcomer Award and the Donald and Eleanor Taffner Best Comedy Show, named after Mr Taffner’s parents.

The Victoria Wood Award is the new name for the spirit of the Fringe panel prize and celebrates the late comedy genius.

Nica Burns said: “Comedy has grown to a whopping 39% of the Fringe, showing nearly 20% growth in 20 years. In a year that the economics of taking a show to the Fringe are tougher than ever with accommodation costs going through the roof, comedians continue to make an enormous commitment to the development of their careers at the Fringe with all the possibilities that it offers. With audiences on budgets too, remember that every ticket you buy or  every pound you put in the hat counts and is appreciated. Everyone going to the Edinburgh Fringe, whether performing or watching, is in their own way investing in the arts. Dear new government, please take note!”

Donald Taffner, Jr., Chairman of DLT Entertainment UK Ltd, said: “The Edinburgh Comedy Awards play a vital role in the success of the Fringe by not only honouring excellence but also spotlighting the comedy industry as a whole. We look forward to our involvement with the Awards again while also honouring my parents who founded our company 61 years ago and always enjoyed helping people advance their careers in entertainment.”

The Judging Panel

The carefully curated 2024 judging panel of seven industry experts are joined by three knowledgeable and avid comedy fans from the general public who are selected from an open application process.

They are:

• Nana Hughes: Head of Scripted Comedy at ITV
• Dominic Cavendish: Theatre Critic at The Daily Telegraph
• Liz Daramola: Creator in Residence at Baby Cow Productions
• Georgia Keating: Producer at BBC Studios Comedy & Entertainment
• Dominic Maxwell: Comedy & Theatre Critic for The Times and The Sunday Times
• Anya Ryan Comedy & Theatre Critic at The Guardian, The Times, Time Out, The Stage
• Darren Smith: Creative Director at DLT Entertainment Ltd
• Sam Anderson: Public panellist
• Jake Helliwell: Public panellist
• Beth Moon: Public panellist

The Edinburgh Comedy Awards has a proven history of spotting comedy brilliance. Past winners have amassed 528 television writing credits, 44 directing credits and over 1,500 acting credits, and nominees have 534 writing credits, 72 directing credits and over 1,200 acting credits on screen. Best Newcomer nominee Alex Horne created the BAFTA award-winning TV series Taskmaster, which has had appearances from 36 winners and nominees across its 18 series.

Responsible for launching the careers of the UK’s comedy elite, previous award winners include Stephen Fry, Steve Coogan, Lee Evans, Al Murray, Sarah Millican, Omid Djalili, Eddie Izzard, Tim Minchin, The League of

Gentlemen, Jenny Eclair and Frank Skinner. Founded in 1981, many award winners and nominees have gone on to have a significant impact on mainstream popular culture, going on to write, direct and act on screen, in some of the most iconic television and film over the last four decades – including Green Wing and Smack The Pony (Victoria Pile), Sherlock (Mark Gatiss), Alan Partridge and Philomena (Steve Coogan), Car Share (Peter Kay), The IT Crowd (Richard Ayoade), Benidorm and No.9 (Steve Pemberton), Doctor Who and her eponymous TV show (Catherine Tate), W1A (Sara Pascoe), Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget (Romesh Ranganathan), Sex Education (Hannah Gadsby), Baby Reindeer (Richard Gadd) and Starstruck (Rose Matafeo).

Edinburgh Council denies that there will be any pressure on school places, even if parents move children from private schools to state schools if fees become unaffordable.

Christine Jardine MP, used her first question to Sir Keir Starmer at Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday to criticise the UK Government’s plans to impose VAT on school fees, citing the projected pressure on the state sector.

The Liberal Democrat MP for Edinburgh West urged the Prime Minister to explain how money raised from VAT on fees in Scotland could be invested in state schools in Scotland, as while VAT is a reserved tax, education policy is devolved. But the Prime Minister did not respond on that point.

Ms Jardine said: “I was disappointed to see the Prime Minister refuse to address the concerns of many parents and teachers in Edinburgh West about the impact of his plans for fees on our community.

“After 17 years of failure on education under the SNP, the last thing pupils and parents need is more disruption from this ill-conceived idea. The Council has been clear that our schools are already fit to burst. They cannot afford a surge in enrolment if parents move their parents to the state sector. There must be a clear plan to boost funding for our schools and provide our pupils, parents and teachers with the schools, facilities and opportunities they deserve.”

The UK Government said throughout the general election campaign – and in the King’s Speech – that it will impose 20% VAT on school fees. A large proportion of pupils in Edinburgh attend independent schools, and fears have been expressed that the increase could cause a problem for education authorities if parents decide that, for financial reasons, they have to move their children into the state sector.

The number of pupils who might have to be accommodated in the state system could run into thousands, but Edinburgh Council has denied that there is the pressure which Ms Jardine has stated. The Council told The Edinburgh Reporter it has room for around 12,700 more pupils.

A council spokesperson said: “Our latest school roll projection figures show there is capacity in our schools for 65,948 pupils.

“Projected figures for August 2024 session are 53,143 pupils and for August 2025 a total of 52,881 pupils. This equates to 12,000 and 13,000 spaces respectively in our schools. In total we have 114 primary and secondary schools and out of them only one primary school is projected to be over capacity in 2024 and in 2025 there could be just three primary schools.

“None of our secondaries will be over capacity.”

And Education, Children and Families Convener at The City of Edinburgh Council, Cllr Joan Griffiths, said: “We’re ready to give all children and young people the best start in life. With the extensions we’re making to some of our school buildings and the new campuses we’re planning to build, we don’t expect many of our secondary schools to hit capacity in the next decade. 

“Plus, we believe secondary school rolls across the city will slow because primary school rolls are falling. Our latest projections show we have capacity for a further 12,700 pupils in our schools, but we’ll continue to keep this under review.”

Scottish Council of Independent Schools (SCIS) confirmed that 9,310 pupils attended SCIS member schools in the year 2022/23.

There are, according to City of Edinburgh Council figures from April 2024, individual secondary schools in Edinburgh where rolls will increase above capacity in a few years’ time, but the gap between total capacity in secondary schools and places already filled, is an overall figure of 4,634 spaces available for the current year and 4,134 for next year.

Secretary of State for Scotland

And although the government will move to take away the exemption from VAT from school fees, the Secretary of State for Scotland, the Rt Hon Ian Murray, confirmed it will not happen immediately.

Mr Murray who represents Edinburgh South said it was a difficult decision to make but there will be no final decision until after the autumn budget. He said: “It will have to go through a fiscal event, so that will be the budget later this year, which will have to then be in a finance bill, so it’s not going to happen this side of the year.

“I think 2025 is what the Treasury – when Rachel (Reeve) was Shadow Chancellor – said, so it’s not coming in right away. But let’s get around the table and try and resolve these issues. I fully understand the concerns of parents, fully understand the anxiety of pupils who may have to change. But let’s all work together to try and find a partnership model and an Edinburgh educational ecosystem- type way that we can have it really working together to provide the best education for every child.”

The Scottish Government

The Scottish Government says it agrees with the policy. A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “The First Minister has made it clear that he supports efforts to remove the VAT exemption on independent schools.

“We hope that the UK Government will hold a budget as soon as is practicable to deliver clarity as to whether there will be any increase in Barnett consequentials from spending decisions in England, as none have yet been notified to The Scottish Government.

“If a net increase in consequentials from schools spending is forthcoming we would seek to make that available to improve education outcomes in Scotland.”

Labour said consistently during the General Election campaign that in government it would seek to impose VAT on school fees from day one. The party said this was an unfair tax break and that by “closing the loophole” Labour would “raise vital money needed to improve standards in stretched state schools with more teachers”.

Firefighters rescued a man during a blaze at a block of flats in Gorgie last night. 

Emergency services were alerted to the fire at a first floor flat on Gorgie Park Close shortly after 8.15pm. 

Six fire appliances and supporting specialist vehicles were mobilised to the scene. 

The man suffered moderate smoke inhalation and received treatment at the scene by the Scottish Ambulance Service. 

A cat suffering from smoke inhalation was treated by firefighters using Smokey Paws kit.  

Crews left the scene around 1am after ensuring the area was made safe. 

A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were alerted at 8.17pm on Wednesday, 24 July, to reports of a fire within a block of flats on Gorgie Park Close, Edinburgh. 

“Six fire appliances and supporting specialist vehicles were mobilised to the scene where crews extinguished a fire within a first-floor flat of a four-storey building.  

“One male casualty was rescued from the building by firefighters. He suffered moderate smoke inhalation and received treatment at the scene by the Scottish Ambulance Service. 

“All other residents were evacuated from the building and no further casualties were reported.  

“A cat suffering from smoke inhalation was treated by firefighters using Smokey Paws kit. Crews left the scene around 1am after ensuring the area was made safe.” 

The Royal High School Preservation Trust (RHSPT) has received planning permission from Edinburgh City Council for its multi-million-pound redevelopment of the Thomas Hamilton Building on Regent Road. 

RHSPT, responsible for conserving and protecting the Thomas Hamilton building, was granted planning permission on Tuesday 23 July, to redevelop the iconic Edinburgh landmark into a brand-new cultural destination and create a vital resource for music-making in Scotland. 

Once complete, the much loved Thomas Hamilton Building will include three intimate performance spaces, rehearsal rooms and a recording studio providing a centre for Scotland’s diverse music sector to collaborate and build on the rich Scottish tradition of music and performance.

New gardens and outdoor areas, a café, conference and business facilities and a vaulted bar will open up the place for everyone – not just music lovers to enjoy from the unique vistas and soak up the sense of history and importance of the Thomas Hamilton Building. 

Grant MacKenzie, Executive Director of the Royal High School Preservation Trust, said: “Receiving planning permission to begin making our vision for the building a reality is a milestone moment in our project’s journey.  

“The Royal High School is both architecturally and culturally significant for Edinburgh, and we’re grateful to Edinburgh City Council for allowing us to bring it back into public use as an exciting indoor and outdoor cultural destination.” 

Funding for the redevelopment is led by a small consortium of philanthropic contributors. 

Open Eye Gallery opens its summer exhibition on Friday. Terre et Mer is a new series of paintings by Edinburgh-born artist, Leon Morrocco, RSA, RGI.

Morrocco’s sunny paintings capture the warmth of the southern European lifestyle, and the bright and calming beauty of its sea and mountainscapes.

For some of these works he moved up into higher ground in the Alps, and takes us into a colourful realm of harmony and comfort. The contrast with the more rigid and architectural cityscapes of the coastline reminds us of the multifaceted aspects of life, and encourages us to be more mindful of our environment and how we connect with it.

Leon Morrocco returns to the mountains of the South of France in a body of works which takes us from the streets and beach fronts of Nice to the hillsides of Roquefort-les-Pins. It was a visit to a family home in the heights of the Alpes-Maritimes that initially inspired him to paint the drama of the hillside.

Stepping back from the overwhelming popularity of the French Riviera, Morrocco then reconnected with the wonders of his cherished mountains, where he could explore the expansiveness of nature, rather than the confines of the architecture by the sea.

He said: “It was a relief to be using organic shapes… it was looser and freer, it freed me up actually. The process of painting became more open-ended… and somehow with the landscape I was able to change quite a lot, without feeling like I was diverging from the subject matter, I was actually adding to it, I was able to be more creative with the shapes.”

This show might just transport you to the bewitching French Mediterranean.

The artist spoke to The Edinburgh Reporter in the gallery and explained where his new love of the mountains began. He said: “It started really, because my son bought a house in the south of France. And underneath the house was a large sort of basement, which I made into a studio and he he was very pleased to have me there, which was quite nice. But it was outside Nice, in the foothills of the Alps. And this took me in a different direction. So instead of going to the coastline, which was my normal thing- and the coastline down there is so developed and so busy that it turned me off a bit. And I was really wondering what I was going to do. So I started diving inland, and I was completely knocked out by the escarpments, and the kind of volcanic shape of and the mountains were just so impressive.”

• Terre et Mer 26 July to 24 August 2024
• Open Eye Gallery 34a Abercromby Place EH3 6QE

https://www.openeyegallery.co.uk

David Gray admitted that there’s “loads to work on” following last night’s defeat to Watford and said his full focus is on the Peterhead match on Saturday. 

Hibs lost 3-2 by the English Championship side at Easter Road, in what was a very useful outing for both sides. 

Gray utilised the game to get extra minutes into the players’ legs, giving the majority of his squad 45 minutes on the pitch. 

When speaking to Hibs TV after the game, he explained that he used the game as an extension of a normal training week as his full focus is on Peterhead. 

“The approach this week has been focused on our competitive game on Saturday.  

“We need to make sure we win that game. We trained properly yesterday, and we treated this game as a ‘big space’ day like we’d normally have in a training week, which is why we gave the players 45 minutes each.  

“Everyone has come through the game well. 

“There’s loads for us to work on, and myself, and the staff have taken a lot away from game. 

“We’ve got more minutes into legs, and it gave us an opportunity to give some of the younger ones minutes too.  

“The likes of Rory Whittaker and Owen Calder did really well. Harry McKirdy got another 45 minutes into him as well. 

“There’s no such thing as a friendly, you don’t want to lose games, so the result was disappointing, but there’s also a lot of positives to take as well.” 

Four players missed out this evening through injury and the Head Coach gave an update on them. 

“They’re all getting closer. Josef (Bursik) was more of a precaution; he had a knock but he’ll be absolutely fine by the weekend. 

“Cadds (Chris Cadden) is progressing nicely. Lewis Miller was another precaution, he got a bang on his arm, so we wanted to leave him out tonight. He will be absolutely fine at the weekend and trained non-contact this morning. 

“Elie (Youan) will be another couple of weeks at the moment.” 

Hibs go into Saturday’s game knowing that a victory over Peterhead will ensure qualification into the last 16 of the Premier Sports Cup. 

Hibs final pre-season fixture ended with a defeat to EFL Championship side Watford in a five-goal thriller at Easter Road last night. 

Former Hibs star Ryan Porteous who played for Scotland at the summer Euros captained Watford. 

Josef Bursik and Lewis Miller were not risked, whilst Chris Cadden and Elie Youan missed out through injury. 

David Gray selected two sides, one for each half and the team wore the new purple and green third strip. 

Hibs started on the front foot and dominated the early part of the game before taking the lead in the 15^th minute when Martin Boyle’s cross was turned in by Josh Campbell from close range. 

Moments later an acrobatic scissor kick finish from Porteous appeared to have levelled the match but his effort was correctly ruled out for offside. 

The English side equalised in the 29^th minute when Imran Louz scored from close range. 

Ex Celtic youngster Rocco Vata added a second shortly thereafter with a deflected effort from just outside the box. 

Hibs drew level in the 53^rd minute when substitute Harry McKirdy capitalised on a mistake by Porteous and managed to intercept his header back to the keeper. 

McKirdy then rounded the keeper and slid the ball into the net for his first goal at Easter Road.  

15-minutes later Watford restored their advantage when Amin Nabizada fired home from inside the area. 

The visitors had chances to add to their lead but the score remained 3-2 in their favour. 

Hibs meet Peterhead in the final Premier Sports Cup group match on Saturday knowing that victory will see them progress into the last 16 of the competition. 

Hibernian: Smith (Boruc 46’), Ekpiteta (Rocky 46’), O’Hora (Harbottle 46’), Vente (McKirdy 46’), Boyle (Amos 46’), Newell (Delferriere 46’), Obita (Calder 46’), Moriah-Welsh (Levitt 46’), Megwa (McAllister 64’), Campbell (Jair 46’), Molotnikov (Whittaker 46’). Substitutes not used: Cleland, McGrath. 

Watford: Bond, Ngakia (Clarridge 64’), Sierralta (Rajovic 46’), Porteous (Nabizada 64’), Pollock (Abbott 75’), Ince, Louza (Adu-Poku 64’), Vata (Forde 64’), Morris (Watkiss 86’), Baah (Tikvic 46’), Ramirez.  Substitutes not used: Marriott, Adeyemo. 

Referee: Nick Walsh. 

Attendance: 8,659. 

National Museums Scotland has announced the acquisition of an ornate early 18th-century sundial of exceptional precision and design, and once owned by the 3rd Duke of Argyll.

The Ilay Glynne dial, which is now on display at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh, is a masterpiece of both art and science.  

The Ilay Glynne dial, made around 1715, was used to measure local time from the Sun, providing the most accurate means of setting clocks available at the time. It could be used at any latitude, and its form models the celestial sphere, showing the Sun’s apparent motion around the Earth.  

The acquisition of the dial, which has important connections to post-Union Scotland, has been supported by the National Heritage Memorial Fund and Art Fund. 

The dial was commissioned by and belonged to Archibald Campbell, Earl of Ilay and later 3rd Duke of Argyll (1682-1761). Ilay was hugely influential figure in post-Union Scotland. He had control over royal patronage in Scotland, and managed Scottish affairs, making him the most politically powerful figure in the first half of the 18th century. He was a founder and the first governor of the Royal Bank of Scotland. His likeness used to appear on all RBS banknotes, and still appears on the £100 note today. Through his patronage, including at Scottish universities, he became an important sponsor and promoter of the culture of the Scottish Enlightenment  

It is signed by Richard Glynne (1681-1755), a successful and well-regarded maker of mathematical instruments and a member of the Clockmakers’ Company. In his business, skills and innovations, Glynne was closely integrated with a growing community of British instrument makers and produced instruments of outstanding quality, of which this dial is the most important surviving example. 

Films at Edinburgh Street Food

Edinburgh Street Food on Leith Street has an outdoor cinema showing a variety of films in July and August with more to come in September.

The 4 metre outdoor screen is sponsored by Lonkero a company which makes a version of Finland’s national long drink with gin, grapefruit and soda water as well as a pinch of pine, lime & twist of botanicals.

All films and live sports are free to watch at Edinburgh Street Food, where there are 50 Lonkero sponsored deck chairs (available on a first-come-first-served basis) and guests can order from 11+ street food vendors and 3 bars, from the comfort of their seat via QR code. Those aged 18+ might like to try a crisp pint of Lonkero, available at Edinburgh Street Food on draught, served over ice with a slice of grapefruit.

Andrew Marshall, co-founder of Edinburgh Street Food said: “ESF is proud to be a springboard for many independent food and drink businesses.

“Not only are we thrilled to add Lonkero to that mix, but conscious of the ever-increasing financial pressures on our customers, we were eager to offer a fun and free activity for people to enjoy this summer.”

Festival of Politics

Festival of Politics is on at Holyrood from 19 to 23 August. Sign up for tickets now.

It’s still Leith!

While she was an MP Deidre Brock combined with Ben Macpherson MSP in a campaign to keep Leith in the name of the new Scottish constituency. And the campaign has been a success. The new name is Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith.

Get along to The Museum of Edinburgh on Friday

This year celebrates 200 years of the world’s first municipal Fire Brigade – founded right here in Edinburgh.Journey through two centuries of firefighting legacy with a special exhibition created in partnership with the Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage. From its humble beginnings in 1824 to the modern-day achievements as the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, explore the remarkable history, stories, and contributions of Edinburgh’s Fire Service.

On 26 July there is a Family event to meet the SFRS Edinburgh Community Action Team. (and there are more events during August)

More information here.

Support local independent journalism

Please support us and buy a monthly newspaper or book your advertising with us. Click on the image below.

Musselburgh Racecourse’s hugely popular Ladies Day is heading for an 8,000 capacity sell-out with less than 400 general admission tickets remaining.

Ladies Day, in partnership with Pommery Champagne, is one of Scotland’s most glamourous sporting and fashion events, and with luxury fashion prizes valued at more than £4,000 the Friday 9 August race day is the place to be.

This years style awards is sponsored by Tiger Lily Boutique and the “best dressed” top prize includes an invitation to visit Champagne Pommery in France – with the winner enjoying two nights at four-star hotel accommodation in Reims and £1,500 spending money.

The East Lothian course are delighted to welcome TV and radio personality, Rylan Clark, who will be behind the decks for the popular After Racing Party which is open to all Ladies Day ticket holders following the last race.

Musselburgh Racecourse marketing manager, Aisling Johnston, said: “The popularity of our five star Ladies Day meeting never wanes and we are confident that 2024 will be yet another sell-out.

“With only one table available in our VIP Marquee and less than 400 general admission tickets remaining, we are looking forward to a fantastic atmosphere and when the racing finishes, firm favourite Rylan will keep the party going.

“Around 50-100 tickets are sold each day so for anyone thinking of attending Ladies Day our advice would be to snap up a ticket now or risk being disappointed.”

Gates open on Friday 9 August at 11.30am, and provisional first and last race times are 2.20pm and 4.50pm.

For further information on Musselburgh Ladies Day or to purchase tickets, visit: https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/view-fixture/ladies-day-2024

Ends

Note to Editors

Web: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk         

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MusselburghRacecourse

Instagram: @musselburghracecourse

Twitter: @musselburghrace

Going update: @MussGoingUpdate

Rising Edinburgh tennis star Jacob Fearnley is through to the last 16 of the ATP Chicago Challenger tournament after a 6-4, 6-3 win over Australian Li Tu.

The 23-year-old extracted revenge for a defeat last week by Australian Tu, who is ranked six places above him at 219, at the Newport Rhode Island tournament.

Whereas Li was a direct entry in Chicago Fearnley, who took a set from Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon, was required to qualify.

Meanwhile, at the LTA Summer County Cup the East of Scotland women built on an opening day victory in group five at Ilkley to see off Durham and Cleveland 6-3 and put themselves in a strong position to make amends for last season’s relegation.

There were two wins apiece for Mhairi Beattie and Maisie Wood, Sarah McFadyen and Ama Nisbet and Shaylin Holt and Aadya Iyer Chadalawada.

The women now face Suffolk who have won a tie and lost another

East men are today facing an all Scottish clash with North in Group One at Eastbourne which could determine whether they retain top flight status.

The latter are in great form with successive wins most recently against Kent whereas East went down 2-7 to Surrey yesterday.

For East there was one win apiece from James Mackinlay and Euan McIntosh as well as Scott Duncan and Sam Macneil.

East Lothian residents are being warned not to fall for promises of a council tax refund in the second scam warning issued in a month.

The latest con involves a message being sent to residents telling them they are due money back and providing a link to a form to fill in to claim it.

It comes just weeks after vulnerable members of communities were targeted by a fake  community health worker who claimed to be offering help with medical alert equipment.

The council tax scam came to light this week after a resident contacted the council after receiving an email promising her nearly £400 of overpaid funds.

A council spokesperson said: “Unfortunately we are aware of a local resident who has been emailed by a third party about a council tax refund. This is a scam. Don’t click on any links or provide bank details to unknown texts, emails or phone callers.”

On June 28 this year the local authority had to issue a warning over community health scammers who were calling people at home offering free help with medical alarms and other equipment.

The calls were confirmed as not being made by representatives of East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership.

The council has issued advice for residents including being wary of cold callers at the door and on the phone and not being afraid to say ‘no thanks’ and close the door, hang up.

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance: A Lifetime of Standing Ovations 

Playhouse Theatre, Edinburgh

For the opening night of this tour, that will tour the UK until November, there was a fantastic atmosphere on a warm summer night entering the historic theatre. Almost thirty years on the mechanics of the show are still the same, the dancing, the blazing fiddles, the costumes, those titanium heels and the energy had people on their feet before the first interval.

The audience were passionately engaged from start to finish and there is not break in energy or the sense of occasion. The Little Spirit played by Cassidy Ludwig brings a sense of fun, her challenge on The Dark Lord in this tale of good vs evil is both playful and entertaining. The concept of grace challenging power is a fascinating construct for any dance show.

The Dark Lord and his gang are a foreboding presence. It’s an astonishing achievement that Lord of the Dance has performed to more than 60 million people around the globe giving Irish dancing a shot in the arm that will help the art form survive in the face of globalisation.

Michael Flatley himself appears on the big screen during an arresting introduction and later during a Fred Astaire style dance routine. Significantly these transmissions from Flatley work well, having his presence around is a nice touch. His percussive moves battering against the floor continue to mesmerise.

There’s not doubt this show in particular connects with people and touches lives, his American Dream style introduction is true to a certain extent but not everyone has a talent such as his or indeed the sheer drive to bring it into reality. It’s clear people feel they have journeyed with him over the decades, through his seasons of illness and through his times of triumph.

When Lord of the Dance first debuted at The Point Theatre, Dublin in July 1996 Irish culture was enjoying a high-peak, the Celtic Tiger Boom had exploded, Irish pubs and culture in the 1990s enjoyed a resurgence. Lord of the Dance unlike the Celtic Tiger was not just for a season. The joy was palpable as the audience spilled out onto the streets of Edinburgh brimming with enthusiasm as they took some of that joy into pubs, buses and the streets in front of them. 

As the prestigious LTA summer county cup takes place around the UK this week a future generation are already honing their skills here in Edinburgh for an opportunity further down the track.

Meet siblings Elodie (12), Fraser (10) and Genevieve (8) Dick who are already East of Scotland county players in the under-14, under-10 and under-8 categories respectively.

The talented trio are members of both Balerno and Thistle clubs for whom they have played age-grade team tennis this season.

In addition Elodie has figured in the VMH Solicitors ladies league.

Mum Heather says: “They love practicing on the artificial clay at Thistle, a lovely welcoming club where they also take part in (coach) Jack Hardie’s Hotshots squads.

“That’s in addition to being coached  individually by Jack George-Burnell at Oriam Tennis Centre and training with East of Scotland County squads. 

“Elodie was a latecomer to tennis and only played her first competitive match in April, 2022 and this summer played her first ITF/Tennis Europe event and got through to the final 16.

“She also plays hockey for school and Grange Hockey Club and is sponsored by the local Edinburgh based Hockey equipment company-Aratac.

“Fraser also plays for Currie Rugby Club and enjoys golf. Genevieve is still deciding what she likes but seems a natural on the tennis court!” 

Detectives investigating an assault on board a train from Edinburgh to Newcastle have today released this image in connection.

At around 4pm on 5 July on the 2.10pm train from Edinburgh Waverly to Newcastle Central station, a man was punched repeatedly in the face and was knocked unconscious suffering a broken eye socket.

Detectives believe that the man in the CCTV image may have information which could help with their investigation.

Anyone who recognises him is asked to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 467 of 4 July.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The local government body COSLA has called upon The Scottish Government to step in with more funding to avert bin strikes in a few weeks’s time.

There was a special leaders’ meeting held on Wednesday to find a way to avoid rubbish piling up in the streets due to strike action threatened by refuse workers in Edinburgh and elsewhere.

Scottish Labour councillors asked for a joint meeting with The Scottish Government to seek more money for pay and to discuss the possibility of a multi-year deal. They also asked that unions suspend their industrial action until discussions with the government have taken place. The SNP members of COSLA are understood to have offered a different solution – to pass the matter to the UK Chancellor, while noting the new more constructive relationship between the two governments.

The deal on the table is that COSLA offered a rise of 3.2% for the year between April 2024 and March 2025, but this has been rejected by the unions. Unions have to give two weeks’ notice of any action which would then take place right in the middle of the Edinburgh festivals.

Cllr Cammy Day, Leader of The City of Edinburgh Council said he is pleased at the outcome from today’s meeting. He said: “I was pleased the Labour amendment was agreed, and not that from the SNP which was trying to pass the responsibility to the UK Government.

“We’ve been quite clear all along that The Scottish Government are responsible for funding local government.

“We do need to engage with Ian Murray, the Secretary of State for Scotland and Chancellor Rachel Reeves, but but right now we need a solution to the local government pay deal. As Nicola Sturgeon intervened and Shona Robison intervened we are now calling on John Swinney to intervene and meeting and make sure The Scottish Government are at the table with the trade unions and council leaders to negotiate a settlement, a reasonable pay award and allow strike action to be called off.

“In Edinburgh we would then be able to stop any industrial action particularly over the summer when local people and tourists are enjoying the city and the festivals. We want to do everything we can to avert the strike action and I was pleased that the Labour motion was supported. It is disappointing that the SNP Group were playing politics with people’s jobs.”

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “Local government pay negotiations are a matter for local authorities as employers and unions – the Scottish Government has no formal role.

“The Scottish Government urges all parties involved to work together constructively and reach an agreement which is fair for the workforce and affordable for employers. Any request for a meeting will be considered carefully when received.”

Speaking after today’s COSLA meeting, Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats Group on COSLA, Cllr Peter Barrett, said: “The SNP Government need to bring something meaningful to the table. COSLA have made the best offer that councils can afford. Council budgets are stretched as far as they can go and the current offer is at the limit of affordability.

“Two years ago rubbish was allowed to pile up in the street while the Scottish Government stuck to the line that there was nothing they could do. Eventually they crumbled and hammered out a deal. This time they should skip the posturing and go straight to the solution.  We need them to come up with the goods and the money to fully fund any improved offer.  

“The unions need to be reasonable too. They are not the only public sector workers who need a pay rise.

“Scottish Liberal Democrats will continue to make the case for long term funding deals for local councils so that they can invest for the future and avoid the threat of strikes popping up every year.”

UNISON Scotland local government lead David O’Connor said: “First Minister John Swinney needs to step up and help solve this dispute. The vast bulk of council funding comes from the Scottish government, and it’s responsible for the council tax freeze, which prevents local authorities from raising further funds. 

“Cosla leaders’ decision to request a joint meeting with government is to be welcomed. UNISON has been calling for this to happen for months.

“It appears the threat of rubbish piling up in the streets and school closures is the only thing Cosla and the government will listen to. But they both need to show a commitment to solve this dispute before industrial action is suspended.”

Police in Edinburgh have arrested two men for theft of a motorbike in the centre of the city. 

Officers responded to a call during the early hours of this morning. 

The men have since been charged and were held in custody to appear at court. 

Officers have thanked the public for their assistance. 

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “During the early hours of this morning, officers responded to a report of two men stealing a motorbike in central Edinburgh.  

“Two people have been charged in connection and held in custody to appear at court. 

“We would like to thank the public who assisted officers who attended.  

“We would also ask anyone with concerns or information about motorbike anti-social behaviour or motorbike crime in their area to get in touch.  

“This can be done online, dialling 101 or through Crimestoppers. 

Hibs Women have announced the signing of goalkeeper Noa Schumacher on a one-year deal.

The young American stopper comes highly recommended and will look to challenge as our number one between the posts for the upcoming year.

She will wear the number 12 jersey for the Hibees this season.

Schumacher has spent the entirety of her career in her native America, progressing through the US college system. 

With California Baptist University, she won the Western Athletic Conference Goalkeeper of the Year award in 2023 and was included in the WAC Team of The Year.

Noa has already joined the squad in Spain for our training camp in Alicante and will look forward to getting to know her new set of fans when she arrives in Scotland. 

On joining the Club, Noa said she was delighted to kickstart her professional career in Edinburgh: “I’ve enjoyed my first few days here with the girls, I’m glad that I was able to make it over to Spain as it’s a great time to get to know the squad, bond with them ahead of the competitive season starting.”

Head Coach Grant Scott commented, “We are pleased to welcome Noa to the Club. It has been a whirlwind few days for her but it’s great to have her here in Alicante with us. Coming through the US college system, Noa brings a different perspective to the squad, her addition will provide us with more depth and quality in the goalkeeping department. We look forward to seeing her impact on the pitch this season.”

A farming family has been overwhelmed by public support after it announced it was ending its annual pumpkin festival.

The Calder family said unpredictable weather had made producing their pumpkin field in East Lothian each year tough and time-consuming.

The popular festival saw people travel from all over to pick their own pumpkins and began in 2018.

The family thanked all their supporters who flooded social media with messages of gratitude and shared their own experiences of visiting their farm.

Lucy Calder, who runs Kilduff Farm, said the family had started the pumkin patch as a project to interest their children in farming before opening it to the public.

The family announced earlier this week that they had decided to end the tradition.

Lucy said: “The comments on our social media posts have been very moving. Calling time on our pumpkin festival is bittersweet. While we know it’s the right decision for our family, we will miss welcoming pumpkin pickers to the farm and all the fun we have had.

 “While we have opened the farm to visitors and events over the last few years, Kilduff Farm is above all a working arable farm.

“Our pumpkin festival started as a small diversification project to help encourage our children out onto the farm and to get them involved in day-to-day farming.

“It certainly achieved that and grew to be much, much more. We never imagined how special it would become to so many families across the Lothians and beyond.”

She added that every successful festival took a huge amount of work behind the scenes with her family and staff pouring ‘heart and soul’ into making it special for everyone who visited.

However, she said: “Growing pumpkins isn’t for the faint of heart and the increasingly unpredictable weather has made delivering an event of this nature and scale more and more challenging and time consuming over the years.

 “Having made the decision to start our pumpkin festival for our family, we have made the decision, as a family, to stop and focus our time and energy back on our core business, smaller events, and family life for now.

“We certainly are not going away though and look forward to other projects unfolding here at Kilduff in time.

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

A custom-made Land Rover Defender has been converted into a hearse for use by clients of a local Edinburgh funeral directors.

The family-owned Edinburgh firm William Purves, noted for conveying Her Majesty the Queen from Balmoral after she died in September 2022, has added a Defender 130 to its fleet following a complete refurbishment by independent Land Rover specialists Engine 710. The classic vehicle was changed significantly to perform as a premium Land Rover hearse. 

Doug MacDowall, director at Engine 710 said: “This project was about reimagining the traditional Defender as a high-quality hearse, while not compromising the integrity of the Land Rover brand. 

Built together with Andrew from William Purves, our specialist team of engineers were able to remodel the vehicle using original, specialist parts. Lowering the deck and adapting the doors is, we believe an industry first and we are proud to present this one-of-a-kind Defender hearse.”

Demand for more personalised funerals has grown in recent years, as families seek to commemorate their lost loved ones with unique, personal touches. 

Unusual funeral transport is just one of the ways to present an element of individuality to the ceremony. William Purves has extensive experience of catering to families’ wishes, including Harley Davidson and VW Camper Van hearses, horse-drawn funeral carriages and even a Rolls Royce accompanied by a one-man band. The addition of the Defender hearse strengthens this offer by allowing Land Rover enthusiasts the option to choose this much-loved renowned vehicle for their final journey.

Andrew Purves, Director of William Purves, said: “Creating this specialised hearse has taken time and attention – it has been a labour of love – and we are now very pleased to offer our customers this classic vehicle for their final journey.

“For five generations, William Purves has helped countless bereaved families say goodbye in a way that is personal and significant to them. Funerals reflect a life lived, so whether that’s asking guests to wear a particular colour, share a dram of whisky at a graveside, or travel in the Defender Hearse, we support families to create bespoke celebrations for their final farewells.  

“With the addition of this bespoke, purpose-built Land Rover Defender hearse, we can continue to deliver on our promise to offer grieving families the choice and freedom to create truly unique, memorable and meaningful funeral services that they can cherish forever”.

This vehicle is a first in Scotland and is expected to become popular among regular users of the vehicle and life-long fans. Taking direction from William Purves’ experienced team of funeral directors, Engine 710 created a custom-made deck low enough to allow coffins, floral tributes and other decoration to be on full display. The rear door has been engineered to open beyond the 90 degrees to facilitate the easy loading and removal of coffins. 

Optimill hinges and LED lights are some of the quality additions that the five-door station wagon boasts, along with features typically found in hearses such as discreet drawers for Orders of Service or umbrellas.  

William Purves’ Land Rover Defender Hearse is available to hire by members of the public and funeral directors here

A massive donation from Wolfson Foundation will support the renovation of the Palm Houses at the Royal Botanic Garden (RGBE).

The charity will donate £750,000 to restore the historic palm houses, turning them into a themed visitor experience for generations to come.

The two late Georgian and Victorian Palm Houses are part of Scotland’s built heritage offering a safe home for fascinating plants some of which are endangered in their natural habitats. But these structures are now two centuries old and needing some repair.

A comprehensive programme to renovate the historic infrastructure is now well underway, helping to conserve the iconic arched windows, repair eroded stonework and replace the extensive glazing with more energy efficient panes.

Paul Ramsbottom, Chief Executive of the Wolfson Foundation, said: “The Palm Houses are not just beautiful buildings, but also have outstanding horticultural, educational and heritage significance. We are delighted to award a grant to restore the buildings with new interpretation, allowing future generations of visitors to be inspired by the plants showcased in them.”

Simon Milne, MBE, Regius Keeper, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh added: “We are hugely grateful to the Wolfson Foundation for this vitally important award which will not only serve to protect buildings of unique architectural significance to Scotland but will also help safeguard our unique Living Collection of plants.

“At a time when 40 per cent of all known plants are under threat, visionary interpretation and activities will help communicate the importance and vulnerability of life on Earth, inspiring visitors to join us in the fight back against biodiversity loss, climate emergency and biosecurity threats.”

Once the conservation work is done RGBE will show how their scientists and botanists are in the front line to conserve biodiversity and protect the planet’s most vulnerable plants.

As well as the Wolfson Foundation other donors and funders include The Scottish Government, National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic Environment Scotland, and Garfield Weston Foundation.

More about the Palm House restoration here.

Hibs have released a new third kit of purple and green stripes. 

Designed in collaboration with Joma, we’ve gone back in time to create this modern classic.  

The jersey takes inspiration from the incredibly popular purple and green striped shirt worn between 1994 and 1996 by the likes of Kevin Harper, Keith Wright and Pat McGinlay. 

The iconic jersey features the printed white Joma logo on the right-hand side of the chest and the Hibernian FC badge embroidered on the left. 

There are also intricate details on the collar and sleeves, which top off the look, alongside the Scottish Thistle on the back. 

The shirt is complimented perfectly with purple shorts and socks that are detailed with green trim. 

For the second season in a row, Bevvy.com will be the front-of-shirt sponsor – with their logo printed in the middle of the jersey. 

As always, the shirt is made with 100% recycled polyester material to minimize the impact on the environment – and a junior replica shirt will also be released with junior sponsor Utilita Energy on the front. 

The brand-new kit is available for supporters to purchase online now and from 10am in-store at Easter Road. 

Festival of Politics

Remember the Festival of Politics is on next month 19 to 23 August, as part of the Fringe. One of the talks which is to take place is by the widow of Enric Miralles the designer of the parliament building, but there is a whole programme to explore here.

Critical Mass this weekend

Edinburgh cyclists will take to the streets this weekend on The Inverleith Adventure. Meet at 2pm at Middle Meadow Walk.

Anyone for Coffee?

If you are looking for somewhere new to try for coffee then have a look at Charlie Ellis’s guide to the “Espresso Elite” which you can read here.

Edinburgh at the Olympics

Edinburgh Leisure staff are off to the Olympics.

Three of Edinburgh Leisure’s staff will represent diving at this year’s Olympics in Paris.

Performance Dive Coach – Jen Leeming, who has worked for Edinburgh Leisure for 12 years developing the diving programme, will be at the 2024 Olympics with Team Jamaica, having coached Edinburgh Leisure Dive Coach, Yona Knight-Wisdom, who is representing his country. And, Dive Specialist Vicki Tomlinson will be representing GB as a diving judge.

Read more here.

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